There were 21 Army and 48 Navy/Marine official campaigns of the Pacific Theater, denoted on the service ribbon by campaign stars; some construction battalion units issued the medal with Arabic numerals. The Arrowhead device is authorized for those campaigns which involved participation in amphibious assault landings. The Fleet Marine Force Combat Operation Insignia is also authorized for wear on the medal for Sailors who participated in combat while assigned to the Marine Corps. The flag colors of Japan and the United States are visible in the ribbon.

Submarine War Patrols (Pacific – 1 star for participation in each war patrol) December 7, 1941 – September 2, 1945

Other campaigns

For members of the military who did not receive campaign credit, but still served on active duty in the Pacific Theater, the following “blanket” campaigns are authorized for which the medal is awarded without service stars.